The 4 Types of Perimeter Security Bollards
There is an undeniable increase in the number of attacks on citizens, communities, and businesses using a vehicle as a weapon. Whether the perpetrator is a member of a terrorist cell or a home-grown malcontent, the destruction is devastating. The loss of life and property can be incalculable, making prevention strategies an essential step in protecting your facility and your community from malicious attacks.
To protect your business, facility, government location, and public space from these highly unpredictable attacks, installing perimeter security bollards is an excellent option. At Delta Scientific we can help you find the right bollard. Review the top options to learn more about the ways you can prevent a vehicular situation from occurring at your location.
Your Options for Perimeter Security Bollards
Bollards provide perimeter security that protects employees, visitors, and the building itself from vehicular attack. Good perimeter security planning incorporates streetscape enhancement and balances the need for safety with maintaining public spaces. In order to prevent unauthorized vehicle entry, bollards come in many designs and specifications.
Review these four designs to consider the best way to protect your property. The right option depends on your specific facility and situation, so review each option to see how Delta Scientific can assist you in preventing malicious attacks with vehicles. Each type of bollard has its own pros and cons, allowing you to tailor your safety setup to meet your situation.
1. Portable Bollards
Crash rated portable bollards are ideal for venues that need temporary perimeter security. Craft fairs, car shows, concerts, and other similar outdoor events can be difficult to secure. With portable perimeter security bollards, you can prevent access to pedestrians and guests. Five of these bollards can be linked together to create a barrier 20 feet long. They can stop and disable a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling at 30 miles per hour.
2. Shallow Foundation Bollards
As bollards usually require a foundation of four feet underground, installation can be difficult in urban areas. Surrounding streets and sidewalks prevent such deep installation of perimeter security bollards. Shallow foundation bollards only need a 14-inch-deep foundation, and therefore can be set into existing roadways, sidewalks, and landscaping. Despite the shallow setting, these bollards are crash rated for speeds up to 50 miles per hour.
3. Automatic Retractable Bollards
Precision steel bollards that can be raised or lowered according to need provide a flexible bollard option. If your business has private parking that needs protection, retractable bollards allow approved vehicles to enter and exit, while others are shut out. Raised and lowered pneumatically, these bollards operate quietly and with minimal disturbance to pedestrians or permitted vehicle traffic.
4. High Security Bollards
Used in sensitive locations around the world, including military facilities and embassies, high security bollards provide the greatest amount of protection from unwanted vehicle access. They can be installed as fixed posts or as retractable bollards. These bollards are capable of stopping vehicles at very high velocities, making them a competitive option for high-security situations.
Security Considerations When Selecting Bollards
Once you determine the category of bollard that can protect your facility from a potential threat, it’s important to review it against basic security features. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers the following recommendations for anyone selecting perimeter security bollards:
- Bollard selection should be based upon the threat assessment
- Bollards should be placed at the edge of any existing yard
- Bollards must not obstruct a clear path for pedestrians
- Two feet from a curb is ideal for bollard placement
At Delta Scientific, we can assist you with tailoring these general recommendations to your specific security situation. Custom solutions for vehicle security can prevent unnecessary incidents, whether accidental or with malicious intent. As a leading manufacturer of vehicle access control equipment, Delta Scientific follows not only FEMA’s recommendations but also safety standards used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Trust Delta Scientific for Your Perimeter Security Bollards
Delta Scientific has been in the security industry for decades. You can trust your business to our business. Let us provide security for you. For more information on how we can help you implement vehicular protection from security bollards, call us at (661) 575-1100 or contact us online. Work with our team to identify a specific perimeter security setup for your facility using the latest in vehicle access control equipment.
What Is the Most Effective Bollard?
The most effective perimeter security bollards meet the safety standards, including K-ratings and M-ratings. Compare the type of bollard available with the type of security you need. For example, retractable bollards offer a level of convenience that isn’t available with permanently installed bollards. Delta Scientific is a world leader in both vehicle barricades and high-security bollards, with products that meet international safety standards in various situations. Reach out to our team to explain your specific situation in order to receive a personalized recommendation for the most effective bollard.
Do You Need Planning Permission for Bollards?
In most situations, bollards are generally allowable without prior planning permission on private property in the United States and the United Kingdom. There are, however, many exceptions to this rule including public land or any shared access areas. Consider reaching out to your local building department or relevant organization to ensure safe and permitted bollard use. Your local municipality may have additional requirements for installing these safety devices, so it’s helpful to connect with your local authorities for clarifying information regarding permitted use of bollards.
What Can I Use Instead of Bollards?
While perimeter security bollards are internationally recognized as efficient, effective ways to prevent unauthorized vehicle entry, there are other options to consider. Some alternatives include bi-fold speed gates, anti-climb doors, parking and traffic teeth, and wedge barricades. Each of these have their own specific applications and may not be suitable in all locations. Connect with our team at Delta Scientific to explore the reasons why you may not wish to use bollards. We can help you find a suitable alternative that fits your situation and international safety requirements.
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